Client Resources

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw. It will bond with the bone over time and thus serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or many missing teeth. They can even replace an entire mouth using Nobel Biocare’s All-on-Four™ or Nobel Guide™ technology!

Are dental implants successful?

With more than three decades of clinical experience and over a million patients treated, statistics confirm a success rate of nearly 95 percent for individual implants*, and even higher for implant bridges it supports.

*Results based on implants and bridges remaining and in function over a five-year period.

How much do implants cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants varies from patient to patient. Cost determining factors include the number of teeth being replaced and the number of implants required to support your replacement teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to the placement of your dental implants to ensure your long-term health. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it is necessary to have the dentist examine you, including the option for third party financing. After a thorough diagnostic examination, you and Dr. Lo will discuss the treatment plan that is right for you. At this time, you and your dentist can also discuss treatment plans to ensure that your dental treatment is affordable for you.

Will dental implants work for me?

Anyone who is missing one or more teeth may be a candidate for dental implants. Dr. Lo will evaluate whether dental implants are a viable solution for you.

Is old age a problem?

Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you’re healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you’re probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. The best way to determine if dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lo. After a careful evaluation of your dental and health history Dr. Lo can determine if you are a viable candidate for dental implants.

What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a bridge?

Improved appearance: When you lose an entire tooth -crown and root – shrinkage of the jawbone may cause your face to look older. Dental implants can stop this process. A traditional denture or bridge cannot, and bone loss will continue to be an issue.Maintaining natural teeth: With traditional practices, the two adjacent teeth to a missing tooth must be ground down in order to anchor a bridge. Dental implants eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth, making dental implants the clear choice for treating missing teeth.Permanent solution: There are no loose parts to worry about. The implant is stable and comfortable. No adjustment is needed after placement. The implant is strong and beautiful, allowing you to enjoy life again; laughing, eating and even sneezing!

How will dental implants affect my life?

Implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function the same as natural teeth. This means that you can eat and smile with confidence again. Most important, dental implants often improve your quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often relieved and amazed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem; they can smile and enjoy life again. During your consultation, we will assist in explaining all available treatment options so that you may arrive at a clear choice in the best dental solution for you.

Will my new teeth look natural?

When dental implants are used in combination with modern restorative dentistry, your appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations

Will I be able to chew with the same force and pressure I use with my natural teeth?

Yes. Following a brief adaptation period, chewing capacity is comparable to that of natural teeth

How much time is required for an implant placement?

Everyone deserves a beautiful smile. Today there is no need to settle for anything less. You can now replace missing teeth with permanent dental implants easily, quickly and comfortably.NobelGuide can give you beautiful teeth in an hour. This unique system has numerous advantages over traditional implant treatment. It reduces the number of visits to the dentist and greatly shortens your treatment time. It is minimally invasive and does not require any general anesthetics. There is a short recovery period after your treatment and you can return to your active life immediately.The system used is a sophisticated, computerized program, allowing the dentist to accurately and safely place the implant(s) in exactly the precise place.With conventional treatment you have to wait for your implants to heal before the teeth are placed, which can take several months. UAD’s implant procedure gives you new teeth immediately. You will even be able to eat shortly after the treatment!In most cases you only need to come in once before the actual treatment.Let us walk you through a typical breakdown of the dental implant process and what you can expect throughout the treatment:First Appointment – Consultation: Examination, digital imaging and model of your mouth.Second Appointment – Placing the implants: At your next appointment the new implants and teeth are usually placed right away.

Is the treatment painful?

As with any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Topical and local anesthesia is used to eliminate any discomfort at the time of the procedure. Most patients report that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they had anticipated. Dr. Lo will prescribe medication (usually over the counter) to ease any discomfort that may occur.

How will I feel after the treatment?

It is normal to have some small bruises and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. But usually the discomfort, if any, is treated with an ordinary painkiller. You should expect to be able to work the next day.

How will I care for my implants?

Just like your natural teeth, your new teeth must be cared for and checked regularly. Brushing and flossing is important and will be explained to you by your dentist or dental hygienist.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Immediately functioning teeth: It is possible to have new, fully functional teeth in just one session.Preserves facial appearance: Tooth loss is typically followed by shrinkage of the jawbone, which may cause you to look older. Dental implants can stop this process.Perfect fit and smile: Dental implants are made to fit perfectly in your mouth, making it next to impossible to distinguish your real teeth from your dental implant(s).Eat what you want: Dental implants are just like natural teeth in appearance and feel. The implants are anchored securely in your jaw so that you can comfortably eat all your favorite foods pain free and carefree!Restores healthy teeth: Previous conventional procedures to replace missing teeth required treatment that caused stress on adjacent teeth. When a missing tooth is replaced with a bridge, neighboring healthy teeth must be ground down in order to support this bridge. This treatment option offers an immediate solution, but can cause additional dental problems in the future. With dental implants, the need to modify healthy teeth is eliminated. Dental implants offer a permanent solution without causing any negative effects to the surrounding healthy teeth. For more information, review the video demonstration to learn about how dental implants are the clear choice for replacing missing teeth.A long-term solution: Dental implants offer a long-lasting solution, often for life. The success of dental implants has now been recorded for over 40 years.A quick and easy procedure: Using the leading dental implant technology, Couture Dentistry / Dental Implant Surgical Institute is often able to place dental implants in just one hour using only local anesthetics. This reduces pain, healing time and prolonged discomfort. At Couture Dentistry / Dental Implant Surgical Institute , dental implant patients can walk in our office and go home that very day with a new smile that looks and feels great!Boosted self-esteem: Once you experience the benefits of new and permanent teeth you will experience renewed confidence and improved quality of life.

Financial Arrangements

In order to provide the highest quality care, we have developed convenient payment options for you to choose from. Prior to the commencement of treatment, fees and financial arrangements will be discussed with you. These arrangements can be coordinated with your dental insurance benefits and third party financing (upon qualifying). We also accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover Card and American Express.